After clinching the top spot in Elite Group B of the 2024 Ranji Trophy, Mumbai showcased their dominance with a hard-fought victory against Baroda in the second Quarter Final.
However, their journey became more challenging as they advanced to the Semi-Finals to face Tamil Nadu, a formidable opponent.
Despite bundling out Tamil Nadu for a mere 146 runs in the first innings, Mumbai’s batting lineup, apart from Musheer Khan, faltered in the second innings under the pressure created by R Sai Kishore’s impressive bowling display on the second day.
Yet, amidst a struggling Mumbai side at 126/7 during Lunch, Shardul Thakur emerged as a savior, steering the team’s innings with remarkable resilience. His exceptional performance culminated in a breathtaking century, marked by a stunning six that reverberated across the Mumbai dugout with applause.
In the pivotal 81st over, facing Ajith Ram, Tamil Nadu’s star bowler of the tournament, Shardul stood at 95* and seized the opportunity with panache. Dancing down the track, he dispatched a tossed-up delivery to the boundary over long-off, reaching his hundred in a display of flair and confidence.
Shardul Thakur gets to his century in style 🔥🔥
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) March 3, 2024
What a time to score your maiden first-class đź’Ż
The celebrations say it all đź‘Śđź‘Ś@imShard | @IDFCFIRSTBank | #RanjiTrophy | #MUMvTN | #SF2
Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/9tosMLk9TT pic.twitter.com/3RI9Sap6DO
Unfazed by the challenges, the seasoned 32-year-old showcased his skill by executing an inside-out stroke, earning admiration from skipper Ajinkya Rahane and the rest of the team.
